Dawnsboutique

How To Make Heart-Shaped Cookie Pops for Valentine's Day

" Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate."

Unknown

If you are looking for a simple cookie recipe for Valentine's Day, look no further than this Pillsbury Heart-Shaped Cookie made with their signature sugar cookie dough. It only requires 5 ingredients, prep time is 15 mins and the serving size is about 24 cookies.

Pillsbury Heart-Shaped Cookie Pops

Ingredients:

1 package (16 oz) Pillsbury Ready To Bake refrigerated sugar cookies

1 container (1 lb) vanilla ready to spread frosting

24 popsicle sticks with round ends

10 yards red curling ribbon

Assorted candy sprinkles

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

Place the dough on a cutting board and cut each cookie in half and shape it into a V-shape, leaving 3/4 of an inch space on the top between the dough pieces. (press bottom halves together to form a V shape).

Transfer dough to an ungreased cookie sheet 2 inches apart and insert a popsicle stick into the bottom of each cookie.

Bake approximately 12-16 minutes until golden brown.

Cool completely for about 10 minutes and remove from the cookie sheet.

Spread frosting on one side of each cookie and decorate with sprinkles.

Lastly - Tie a bow (ribbon) around each stick (approx. 18 inches) and serve.

Source: Google

For more cookie recipes visit: Pillsbury

Happy Valentine's Day!

5 Popular Home Design Trends For 2021

“Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style.”

Billy Baldwin

Nothing can replace your own taste and your own style of decor, however, if you want to achieve a more modern cohesive home following popular home design trends is the way to go.

Home design trends usually reflect the mindset of the population at hand. For example, this year 2021, home design trends are more simple with neutral, and soothing tones. Furniture is more streamlined and nature is a predominant theme.

5 Popular Home Design Trends for 2021

Coziness

Since most of us are still staying home in 2021, adding coziness to your space is paramount. Try bringing in soft textiles in the form of throws, blankets, shaggy rugs and, pillows. Candles are also a must-have when incorporating a cozy vibe into your home.
Minimalism

Less is indeed more. For this design trend choose decor pieces that you really love and that have meaning. For example - choose quality over quantity. Get rid of cluttered objects and select decor pieces that deliver maximum impact.
Nature

Bringing in nature-inspired decor such as plants brings life into your space, improves the aesthetic, and is also beneficial to the environment. Also, when selecting decor objects choose colors that are found in nature such as rustic vases, neutral paint colors, driftwood, and terra-cotta pots.
Privacy Walls

This design trend is gaining popularity because our lifestyle has shifted due to people working from home, children having virtual classrooms at home, and others have extended families moving back into the home. Privacy tends to be an issue when there are so many activities going on at once so the solution to that is putting up dividers, and/or privacy walls.

5.  Streamlined Furniture

       Simple, and clean lines seem to be the trend in home furnishings in 2021. Gone are curvy and scrolled furniture that is bulky which tends to make a room feel heavy and depressed. Instead opt for matte white lacquer furniture, modular storage systems, and industrial-chic accessories.

Cozy soft and neutral textiles

Minimalist living room

Rustic vases inspired by nature

Modern Privacy Divider

Streamlined white sofa

(Source: Pinterest)

These Home Design Trends are modern, but not ostentatious. What do you think? Please comment below, I would love to hear from you.

How To Organize And Reduce Visual Clutter In Your Home

"Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that at this moment, all you have is all you need." - Sarah Ban Breathnach

Happy New Year dear readers! This is the perfect time to organize and eliminate the visual clutter in your home so that you can start the new year in a more pleasing space. Your home should make you feel inspired, positive, and productive. If there is visual clutter it will tend to make you feel unproductive and less motivated to tackle your to-do list. Furthermore, a clean and organized space is good for your health and well-being.

HOW TO ORGANIZE AND REDUCE VISUAL CLUTTER

Living Room

Obtain a charging station to corral phone chargers and USB cords.
Place remote controls and other TV devices in a remote caddy to store when not in use
Place coasters on your coffee table to avoid stains and to keep it clean
Invest in a bookcase to store of course books, vinyl records, plants, and souvenirs

Kitchen
Utilize baskets in the kitchen for storage in the pantry, cabinets, and under the sink
Organize the coffee/tea station with glass jars for tea bags, and sugar
Place a cutting board on the back of your kitchen storage tray to make it look more aesthetically pleasing
Keep countertops clear by putting away small appliances
Clean as you go
Donate unused items
Recycle as soon as possible to avoid clutter
Invest in storage organizers so that everything has a home

Entryway
Use a shoe tray or wood cubes for outdoor shoes and boots so they don't pile up at the door
Hang an organizer on the back of the entryway door for scarves, pet leashes, etc.
Contain mail, keys and, sunglasses with a key rack
Utilize a coat rack if you don't have an entryway closet
For the rainy season use a decorative umbrella stand to house your umbrellas

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Source: Wayfair

Now you are ready to tackle the new year in an organized well-kept space. Reducing the visual clutter in your home helps to alleviate stress and that is the last thing you need in 2021.

As always, be inspired!

5 Unique and Elegant Christmas Tree Decor Ideas

"Christmas isn't a season, it's a feeling"

Edna Ferber

Decorative Christmas trees have evolved a lot throughout the years, from the basic traditional tree to non-traditional trees such as paper trees, tiny tabletop trees, or wall trees.

These non-traditional trees are becoming more popular as people start to think outside the box and curate their own individual Christmas tree theme. It is very refreshing to see homes decked out with these unique trees, instead of the same old decorated trees that have been displayed for years.

If you are tired of decorating your abode with a traditional tree and need inspiration why not experiment with a non-traditional tree like the ones below:

Unique and Elegant Christmas Tree Decor Ideas

Elegant felt Christmas tree perfect for a dining table

Beautiful wall tree with mini ornaments

DIY tree using plastic spoons

Tabletop tree trimmed with tiny red houses

Colorful bristle brush trees stacked together

Source: Pinterest

Decor Tip: Shop Etsy for unique Christmas trees. and design ideas.

I hope I have inspired you to incorporate a unique Christmas tree theme for your home this year. Have a wonderful Christmas season dear readers!

Oprah's Favorite Gifts from Amazon for Christmas 2020

Christmas 2020 is upon us. This year has been a bit challenging but nonetheless, it's time to get in the spirit and celebrate that special day!

Looking for the perfect gift for your loved ones can be a little intimidating so why not let Oprah do the search for you with her Favorite Things from Amazon. Whether you're looking for something for the home or a personal gift item her list does not disappoint, as we all know Oprah has discerning taste. No need to worry about your budget as it includes items ranging from $14-$800.

Oprah's Favorite Gifts of 2020 From Amazon

The Barista Pro $800.00

The perfect gift for cappuccino lovers

Hydroponic Mason Jar Garden Set Trio $49.50

Growing a herbal garden indoors is a cinch with this kit

Afriyie Platter - $90

A striking teal and cream platter to show off your fancy fruits

Dye Giant Hoodie $60

Unisex hoodie in various tie-dyed shades

Headwrap by thewrap.life $16

A beautiful hair accessory that is also practical

Stainless Steel Triple Insulted Mug $35

Keep your hot beverages hot for up to three hours

Source: Amazon

Dinner Ideas - How To Make Snap Pea Salad With Tarragon Dressing

"To keep the body in good health is a duty"

- Buddha

Nourishing our bodies with healthy food is a must especially during these extraordinary times. Protecting our cells from damage and boosting our immune system requires the intake of certain foods, i.e. salads.

Snap Pea Salad is not only nutritious but visually pleasing as well. Sugar Snap Peas contain vitamin A essential for keeping your immune system healthy. It is also loaded with vitamin C, iron, beta-carotene, magnesium, and fiber. If you are looking for an alternative to your usual salad try this quick and easy salad, see below for details:

SNAP PEA SALAD WITH TARRAGON DRESSING

Ingredients:

8 ounces sugar snap peas, sliced lengthwise

1 cup shredded Napa cabbage

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks

1/2 cup toasted cashews

2 scallions

1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds

Tarragon Dressing:

3 tbs. avocado oil

2 tbs. rice vinegar

2 tbs. chopped tarragon

1 tsp. sesame oil

1 tsp. grated ginger

1/2 tsp. honey

Kosher salt and black pepper

Directions:

1. In a large bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients and season with salt and pepper.

2. Add all the salad ingredients to the bowl (excluding sesame seeds) and toss.
Season with salt and pepper.

3. Serve salad topped with extra cashews and chopped tarragon.
Sprinkle with remaining sesame seeds.

A quick and simple salad to eat any time or as a side salad with your Thanksgiving dinner. Enjoy!

Source: Shape Magazine

My Favorite Finds From Target's New Fall Home Collection

"Some people look for a beautiful place, others make a place beautiful"

- Hazrat Khan

The wonder of Target. A budget-conscious home decor lover's dream store filled with the latest decor accents that are within reach. This fall Target does not disappoint with their perfectly curated items begging for a home.

The new fall collection features a color palette of rich plums/pinks, burnt orange, warm browns, and rich blues with varying textures and tones suitable for any style of decor such as Traditional, Modern Farmhouse, or Bohemian. Choose accents that add warmth, and coziness to your space to get that feeling of fall even if you live in a warmer climate such as throws/blankets, candles, pillows, and comfy bedding. Their fall collection also includes decorative storage, table linens, and dining tableware to complete the fall aesthetic.

My Favorite Fall Finds

Stoneware vase in gray from Threshold approx. $5.99-14.99

Shop now

Traditional Pillows and Throws from the Threshold Collection

from $19.99

Shop now

Lidded Glass Jar With Wood Wick (Fir and Suede)

approx $11.99

Shop now

Elegant Magnolia glazed dinner plate

approx. $23.99

Shop now

Harvest Cable Knit Pumpkin

approx. $10.00

Source: Target.com

The Target Fall Home Collection is a one-stop-shop for all your fall decor needs. Let these photos inspire you to create a cozy atmosphere in your home and happy shopping!

5 Modern Front Porch Decorating Ideas For The Fall Season

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

- Unknown

Cooler temperatures, golden hues, pumpkins, and gourds, finally it is Autumn! Nature is also changing colors from green to purple, red, yellow, and orange, it certainly is a beautiful time of the year.

If you love decorating your home for the season, one of the first things to tackle is your outdoor area, whether you have a porch or patio as it sets the tone and it creates a welcoming effect.

Before you start decorating, it is a good idea to clean your patio and hose down any stains or spots leftover from summer. Also, replace any outworn doormats, and clean windows and doors. This will give you a good palette to work with and will make your outdoor decor shine.

If you are on a small budget, consider shopping at thrift stores for your outdoor merchandise as things can get pretty costly if you have a large porch to decorate. That being said, now you are ready to decorate. Simplicity is the key when achieving a modern front porch. Use monochromatic colors and tones to get a cohesive look. Pick a color scheme that you love and incorporate lanterns, buckets, wire baskets, corn husks, greenery, and for a touch of elegance add outdoor cushions and a throw.

Below you will find five modern front porch decorating ideas that will inspire you to achieve a modern aesthetic.

Modern Front Porch Decorated For Fall

Source: Google

Have you started decorating for the fall season? If so, please comment below if you have any questions about the decorating process.

Update Your Abode With These Contemporary and Chic Kitchen Trends

The fall season is the perfect time to think about updating your kitchen as it will be the center of attention once again as kids head back to school and fall activities return.

A kitchen update does not have to break the bank. You can replace and update gradually depending on your budget and lifestyle. If you are planning to put your house on the market just know that the kitchen is the most important room that buyers consider when purchasing a home so updating it will be well worth it.

CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN TRENDS

Matte Black

This ultra-modern color will take your outdated kitchen finishes to the next level. You can choose this color for your faucet, dishwasher, cabinet knobs, and sink. It will certainly transform your kitchen instantly.

Blue Cabinets

Most people love the color blue, so why not give your cabinets a refresh and paint it this charming color. You can choose from light blue, dark blue, gray-blue, or anything in between. Blue goes well with neutral colors and metals.

Bronze Appliances

If you are tired of the boring stainless steel appliances well you are in luck. Bronze appliances are so very chic and will continue to be for years to come. This hue adds a touch of class but is not gaudy by any means. Check your favorite home appliance store for the details.

Wood Accents

Adding wood accents to white kitchen cabinets elevates it by adding contrast and depth. The wood also warms up the cold feel of white cabinets which is a definite plus. So if you still love your white kitchen but you just want a little change, you can update it subtly by adding wood accents.

Dramatic Backsplash

The subway tile kitchen backsplash has been the norm for many years, but recently there has been an influx of fun and dramatic backsplashes such as slab marble, slab quartz, painted glass, stainless steel, penny tiles, and bold colorful patterns. Go for the type of backsplash that will match your home's aesthetic seamlessly.

These kitchen trends have a lot of staying power and will definitely transform your kitchen into a chic welcoming space for the fall season ahead. See below for photos:

Wood cabinets warm up a sterile white kitchen

A matte black dishwasher modernizes this space

A chic kitchen faucet and sink in matte black

A dramatic stainless steel backsplash

Contemporary blue cabinets

Source: Pinterest

My Favorite Decor Finds from Zara Home

"Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style."

Billy Baldwin, American interior decorator

Zara Home is a one-of-a-kind retail store that showcases contemporary interior styling, mixed with traditional wares that are appealing to the modern home decorator. If you love the Zara fashion brand then you will definitely love Zara Home.

Their line of home products ranges from bedding, linens (bed and bath), kitchenware (glassware/dishes), tableware, cutlery, rugs, throws, and home decor accessories. Their website is beaming with an array of decorating possibilities for the budget-conscious as well as the no-budget consumer.

I scoped out their line of products and below I've listed my favorite finds, based on the low end to high-end pricing. See photos below:

Rustic Two-Tone Pitcher

100% Stoneware- Approx. $49.90 Shop

Striped Two-Tone Kitchen Towel (2 pack)

100% Cotton - Approx. $9.90

Crystalline Tumbler Gold Trim

100% Glass Crystal - Approx. $7.90 - $9.90 each

Shop

Embellished Cotton Blanket

100% Cotton - Approx. $99.90

Wood Kitchen Cutting Board

Acacia Wood - approx. $39.90 - $69.90 Shop

Source: Zara Home

Zara Home offers a great selection of housewares to suit any taste and budget no matter what your style of decorating.

Decor Tip:

To maintain your cotton purchases (kitchen towels) always wash in cold water as high temps tend to shrink fabrics and tumble dry low. Also, their stock tends to sell out pretty fast so don't hesitate if you find something that you really love. Happy shopping!

Dinner Ideas - How To Make Healthy Shrimp and Asparagus Salad

Summer is upon us and with these high temps and heatwaves, who wants to cook a complicated meal with hours spent in the kitchen. A light and healthy dinner is the answer with seasonal veggies and healthy seafood combined.

Shrimp promotes heart and brain health. It contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids which are extremely important in preventing heart disease.

Source: Southern Living Magazine

How To Make Healthy Shrimp and Asparagus Salad

Ingredients:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup uncooked orzo
8 oz. fresh asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup fresh sugar snap peas
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
12 peeled and deveined medium shrimp
1/4 cup each of chives, tarragon, and parsley

Directions:

Whisk oil, juice, salt, and pepper and set aside.
Cook orzo per directions and place in a bowl to cool.
In a large saucepan boil asparagus, sugar snap peas until bright green approx. 2 mins. then add peas and stir until softened. Transfer vegetables to an ice bath but keep water in the saucepan to cook the shrimp.
Boil shrimp until pink approx. 3 mins., drain and transfer to ice bath with vegetables.
Mix together shrimp, vegetables, chives, parsley. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.

This recipe can be served at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy!